In the Netherlands, an old home dating back to the 1960s has been given an energy-neutral makeover, and the results are stunning. At the request of the owners, O2 Studio revamped the home into an energy-efficient powerhouse. In addition to using passive strategies, like adding more windows and skylights to let in optimal natural light, O2 Studio installed an innovative hybrid system of PV panels and geothermal heat to generate clean energy.
Located in Bunnik, near Utrech, the family home is a great example of how to renovate an old structure using sustainable materials and energy-efficient features to bring it into the 21st century. The architects decided to retain the original layout of the structure, but wanted to flood its interior with as much light as possible. Thanks to several windows and a skylight, the house is naturally lit throughout the day, reducing energy use and costs. The home’s self-sustaining energy system takes advantage of both geothermal heating and solar power through a roof-mounted PV array.
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On the interior, a new glass staircase leading to the upper floor was installed to enhance the home’s open floor plan. The ground floor of the home was extended to make space for an open kitchen and seating area, which leads to the outside through extremely large glass sliding doors — again, bringing in natural light wherever possible.
The kitchen and dining area was placed 50 centimeters lower than the entrance level — a strategic design tactic that seamlessly connects the inside of the villa with the outdoor garden and a beautiful river nearby. In fact, the home is surrounded by greenery, giving it a contemporary cabin-in-the-woods feel.
Photography by Ossip via O2 Studio
